The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has handed over a new vehicle to the Ministry of Environment and Climate to enhance the monitoring and management of the Western Area Peninsula (WAP) Project.
The initiative, funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF), aims to strengthen conservation efforts and promote sustainable environmental practices in Western Area of the nation’s capital.
The WAP Project aims to conserve and sustainably manage the Western Area Peninsula Forest Reserve, which is under threat from deforestation, habitat degradation, and other human activities. The project also seeks to promote ecosystem-based adaptation to climate change, improve livelihoods, and protect biodiversity.
Speaking at the handover ceremony, Deputy Resident Representative Sayed Sahibzada emphasized the importance of protecting Sierra Leone’s natural resources.
“This vehicle will facilitate the Ministry’s efforts to monitor and manage the WAP Forest Reserve, ensuring the long-term sustainability of this critical ecosystem.”
The Permanent Secretary of the Minister of Environment and Climate, Madam Elizabeth Hawa Ellie thanked UNDP and GEF for their continued support. “This donation comes at a crucial time when environmental degradation and climate change pose significant challenges to our natural resources. With this vehicle, our teams will be better equipped to monitor and protect the Western Area Peninsula” she said.
The WAP Project is designed to enhance biodiversity conservation, restore degraded ecosystems, and strengthen community engagement in environmental protection. The new vehicle will play a vital role in facilitating site inspections, data collection, and enforcement activities within the region.
UNDP reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Sierra Leone’s environmental initiatives, highlighting that partnerships like these are essential for achieving sustainable development.
The vehicle donation marks another milestone in UNDP’s ongoing collaboration with the Government of Sierra Leone to promote environmental sustainability and conservation.
